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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To update the evidence-based Nonhormonal Management of Menopause-Associated Vasomotor Symptoms: 2015 Position Statement of The North American Menopause Society. METHODS An advisory panel of clinicians and research experts in women's health were selected to review and evaluate the literature published since the Nonhormonal Management of Menopause-Associated Vasomotor Symptoms: 2015 Position Statement of The North American Menopause Society. Topics were divided into five sections for ease of review: lifestyle; mind-body techniques; prescription therapies; dietary supplements; and acupuncture, other treatments, and technologies. The panel assessed the most current and available literature to determine whether to recommend or not recommend use based on these levels of evidence: Level I, good and consistent scientific evidence; Level II, limited or inconsistent scientific evidence, and Level III, consensus and expert opinion. RESULTS Evidence-based review of the literature resulted in several nonhormone options for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms. Recommended: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, clinical hypnosis, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors/serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, gabapentin, fezolinetant (Level I); oxybutynin (Levels I-II); weight loss, stellate ganglion block (Levels II-III). Not recommended: Paced respiration (Level I); supplements/herbal remedies (Levels I-II); cooling techniques, avoiding triggers, exercise, yoga, mindfulness-based intervention, relaxation, suvorexant, soy foods and soy extracts, soy metabolite equol, cannabinoids, acupuncture, calibration of neural oscillations (Level II); chiropractic interventions, clonidine; (Levels I-III); dietary modification and pregabalin (Level III). CONCLUSION Hormone therapy remains the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms and should be considered in menopausal women within 10 years of their final menstrual periods. For women who are not good candidates for hormone therapy because of contraindications (eg, estrogen-dependent cancers or cardiovascular disease) or personal preference, it is important for healthcare professionals to be well informed about nonhormone treatment options for reducing vasomotor symptoms that are supported by the evidence.
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Trémollieres FA, Chabbert-Buffet N, Plu-Bureau G, Rousset-Jablonski C, Lecerf JM, Duclos M, Pouilles JM, Gosset A, Boutet G, Hocke C, Maris E, Hugon-Rodin J, Maitrot-Mantelet L, Robin G, André G, Hamdaoui N, Mathelin C, Lopes P, Graesslin O, Fritel X. Management of postmenopausal women: Collège National des Gynécologues et Obstétriciens Français (CNGOF) and Groupe d'Etude sur la Ménopause et le Vieillissement (GEMVi) Clinical Practice Guidelines. Maturitas 2022; 163:62-81. [PMID: 35717745 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2022.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of these recommendations is to set forth an individualized approach to the management of early postmenopausal women (i.e., within the first 10 years after natural menopause) covering all aspects of lifestyle and therapeutic management, with or without menopause hormone therapy (MHT). MATERIALS AND METHODS Literature review and consensus of French expert opinion. Recommendations were graded according to the HAS methodology and levels of evidence derived from the international literature, except when there was no good-quality evidence. SUMMARY RECOMMENDATIONS The beginning of menopause is an ideal time for each woman to evaluate her health status by assessing her bone, cardiovascular, and cancer-related risk factors that may be amplified by postmenopausal estrogen deficiency and by reviewing her lifestyle habits. Improving lifestyle, including nutrition and physical activity, and avoiding risk factors (notably smoking), should be recommended to all women. MHT remains the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms but it could be also recommended as first-line treatment for the prevention of osteoporosis in early postmenopausal women at low to moderate risk for fracture. The risks of MHT differ depending on its type, dose, duration of use, route of administration, timing of initiation, and whether a progestogen is used. There is reasonable evidence that using transdermal estradiol in association with micronized progesterone or dydrogesterone may limit both the venous thromboembolic risk associated with oral estrogens and the risk of breast cancer associated with synthetic progestins. Treatment should be individualized to each woman, by using the best available evidence to maximize benefits and minimize risks, with periodic reevaluation of its benefit-risk balance. For bothersome genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) symptoms, vaginal treatment with lubricants and moisturizers is recommended as first-line treatment together with low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy, depending on the clinical course. No recommendation of an optimal duration of MHT can be made, but it must take into consideration the initial indication for MHT as well as each woman's benefit-risk balance. Management of gynecological side-effects of MHT is also examined. These recommendations are endorsed by the Groupe d'Etude sur la Ménopause et le Vieillissement hormonal (GEMVI) and the Collège National des Gynécologues-Obstétriciens Français (CNGOF).
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Affiliation(s)
- F A Trémollieres
- Centre de Ménopause et Maladies Osseuses Métaboliques, Hôpital Paule-de-Viguier, CHU Toulouse, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 70034, 31059 Toulouse, France; Inserm U1048-I2MC-Equipe 9, Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, 1, avenue du Professeur-Jean-Poulhes, BP 84225, 31432 Toulouse cedex 4, France.
| | - N Chabbert-Buffet
- Service de gynécologie obstétrique, médecine de la reproduction, APHP Sorbonne Universitaire, Site Tenon, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France
| | - G Plu-Bureau
- Unité de gynécologie médicale, Hôpital Port-Royal, 123 boulevard de Port-Royal, 75014 Paris, France; Université de Paris, Paris, France; Inserm U1153 Equipe EPOPEE, Paris, France
| | - C Rousset-Jablonski
- Département de chirurgie oncologique, Centre Léon Bérard, 28, Promenade Léa-et-Napoléon-Bullukian, 69008 Lyon, France; Département d'obstétrique et gynécologie, Hospices Civils de Lyon, CHU Lyon Sud, 165, Chemin du Grand-Revoyet, 69310 Pierre-Bénite, France; Université Lyon, EA 7425 HESPER-Health Services and Performance Research, 8, avenue Rockefeller, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - J M Lecerf
- Service de nutrition et activité physique, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 1, rue du Professeur-Calmette, 59019 Lille cedex, France; Service de médecine interne, CHRU Lille, 2, avenue Oscar-Lambret, 59000 Lille, France
| | - M Duclos
- Service de médecine du sport et des explorations fonctionnelles, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Clermont Université, Université d'Auvergne, UFR Médecine, BP 10448, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; INRAE, UMR 1019, UNH, CRNH Auvergne, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - J M Pouilles
- Centre de Ménopause et Maladies Osseuses Métaboliques, Hôpital Paule-de-Viguier, CHU Toulouse, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 70034, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - A Gosset
- Centre de Ménopause et Maladies Osseuses Métaboliques, Hôpital Paule-de-Viguier, CHU Toulouse, 330, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, TSA 70034, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - G Boutet
- AGREGA, Service de chirurgie gynécologique et médecine de la reproduction, Centre Aliénor d'Aquitaine, Hôpital Pellegrin, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - C Hocke
- Service de chirurgie gynécologique et médecine de la reproduction, Centre Aliénor d'Aquitaine, CHU de Bordeaux, Place Amélie-Raba-Léon, 33076 Bordeaux cedex, France
| | - E Maris
- Département d'obstétrique et gynécologie, CHU Montpellier, Université Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - J Hugon-Rodin
- Unité de gynécologie médicale, Hôpital Port-Royal, 123 boulevard de Port-Royal, 75014 Paris, France
| | - L Maitrot-Mantelet
- Unité de gynécologie médicale, Hôpital Port-Royal, 123 boulevard de Port-Royal, 75014 Paris, France
| | - G Robin
- Service de gynécologie médicale, orthogénie et sexologie, UF de gynécologie endocrinienne, Hôpital Jeanne-de-Flandre, CHU de Lille, avenue Eugène-Avinée, 59037 Lille cedex, France
| | - G André
- 15, boulevard Ohmacht, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - N Hamdaoui
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Nord, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Chemin des Bourrely, 13015 Marseille, France
| | - C Mathelin
- Institut de cancérologie Strasbourg Europe, 17, rue Albert-Calmette, 67200 Strasbourg, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, 1 avenue Molière, 67200 Strasbourg, France; Institut de génétique et de biologie moléculaire et cellulaire (IGBMC), CNRS UMR7104 Inserm U964, 1, rue Laurent-Fries, 67400 Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
| | - P Lopes
- Nantes, France Polyclinique de l'Atlantique Saint Herblain, 44819 St Herblain, France; Université ́de Nantes, 44093 Nantes cedex, France
| | - O Graesslin
- Département de gynécologie-obstétrique, Institut Mère-Enfant Alix de Champagne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, 45, rue Cognacq-Jay, 51092 Reims cedex, France
| | - X Fritel
- Service de gynécologie-obstétrique et médecine de la reproduction, CHU de Poitiers, 2, rue de la Milétrie, 86000 Poitiers, France
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Wilhelms DB, Dock H, Brito HO, Pettersson E, Stojakovic A, Zajdel J, Engblom D, Theodorsson E, Hammar ML, Spetz Holm ACE. CGRP Is Critical for Hot Flushes in Ovariectomized Mice. Front Pharmacol 2019; 9:1452. [PMID: 30662401 PMCID: PMC6328451 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hot flushes are common and troublesome symptoms of menopause. The neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is increased in plasma during hot flushes but it has not been clear if CGRP is causally involved in the mechanism underpinning the flushes. Here, we examined the effect of interventions with CGRP in a mouse model of hot flushes based on flush-like temperature increases triggered by forced physical activity in ovariectomized mice. Compared to normal mice, ovariectomized mice reacted with an exaggerated, flush-like, temperature increase after physical exercise. This increase was completely blocked by the non-peptide CGRP-antagonist MK-8825 (-0.41 degrees Celsius, 95% CI: -0,83 to 0,012, p < 0.0001) at a dose that had no obvious effects on locomotor activity (50 mg/kg). Further, the flush-like temperature increases were strongly attenuated in ovariectomized mice lacking αCGRP due to a genetic modification. Collectively, our findings suggest that CGRP is an important mediator of experimentally induced hot flushes and they identify CGRP antagonists as promising treatment candidates for women and possibly also men with hot flushes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B. Wilhelms
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Local Health Care Services in Central Östergötland, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Hua Dock
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Haissa O. Brito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Emma Pettersson
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Andrea Stojakovic
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Joanna Zajdel
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - David Engblom
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Elvar Theodorsson
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Mats L. Hammar
- Division of Childrens and Womens Health, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anna-Clara E. Spetz Holm
- Division of Childrens and Womens Health, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Linköping, Sweden
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Westmark CJ. Soy-Based Therapeutic Baby Formulas: Testable Hypotheses Regarding the Pros and Cons. Front Nutr 2017; 3:59. [PMID: 28149839 PMCID: PMC5241282 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2016.00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Soy-based infant formulas have been consumed in the United States since 1909, and currently constitute a significant portion of the infant formula market. There are efforts underway to generate genetically modified soybeans that produce therapeutic agents of interest with the intent to deliver those agents in a soy-based infant formula platform. The threefold purpose of this review article is to first discuss the pros and cons of soy-based infant formulas, then present testable hypotheses to discern the suitability of a soy platform for drug delivery in babies, and finally start a discussion to inform public policy on this important area of infant nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara J Westmark
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin , Madison, WI , USA
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Use and perceived efficacy of complementary and alternative medicines after discontinuation of hormone therapy: a nested United Kingdom Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening cohort study. Menopause 2016; 22:384-90. [PMID: 25290539 PMCID: PMC4470524 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental digital content is available in the text. Objective Given that the Women’s Health Initiative reported in 2002 increased risks of breast cancer and cardiovascular events with hormone therapy (HT) use and many women discontinued use, we assessed the use and perceived efficacy of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for menopausal symptom relief after discontinuation of HT. Methods Postmenopausal women aged 50 to 65 years within the United Kingdom Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening who were willing to take part in a secondary study were mailed a survey to evaluate menopausal symptom management. Use and perceived efficacy of CAMs for relief of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) upon discontinuation of HT were examined. Results The survey was sent to 15,000 women between July 2 and July 9, 2008. Seventy-one percent (10,662 of 15,000) responded, and 10,607 women with complete data were included. Ever use of HT was reported by 60.2% (6,383 of 10,607). At survey completion, 79.3% (5,060 of 6,383) had discontinued HT, with 89.7% (4,540 of 5,060) of the latter reporting using one or more CAMs for VMS relief. About 70.4% (3,561 of 5,060) used herbal remedies, with evening primrose oil (48.6%; 2,205 of 4,540) and black cohosh (30.3%;1,377 of 4,540) being most commonly used. Exercise was used by 68.2% (3,098 of 4,540), whereas other behavioral/lifestyle approaches were less frequently reported (13.9%; 629 of 4,540). Contrarily, more women (57%-72%) rated behavioral/lifestyle approaches as effective compared with herbal remedies (28%-46%; rating ≥4 on a “helpfulness” scale from 1-10). Among medical treatments, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were used by 10% and rated effective by 72.1%. Conclusions Although more women use over-the-counter medicines, behavioral/lifestyle approaches seem to provide better relief of VMS. There is a pressing need for better evidence-based lay information to support decision-making on CAM use for relief of VMS.
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Effects of Inhalation of Essential Oil of Citrus aurantium L. var. amara on Menopausal Symptoms, Stress, and Estrogen in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:796518. [PMID: 25024731 PMCID: PMC4082953 DOI: 10.1155/2014/796518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Revised: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of inhalation of the essential oil of Citrus aurantium L. var. amara (neroli oil) on menopausal symptoms, stress, and estrogen in postmenopausal women. Sixty-three healthy postmenopausal women were randomized to inhale 0.1% or 0.5% neroli oil or almond oil (control) for 5 minutes twice daily for 5 days. Menopause-related symptoms, as determined by the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL); sexual desire visual analog scale (VAS); serum cortisol and estrogen concentrations, blood pressure, pulse, and stress VAS, were measured before and after inhalation. Compared with the control group, the two neroli oil groups showed significant improvements in the physical domain score of the MENQOL and in sexual desire. Systolic blood pressure was significantly lower in the group inhaling 0.5% neroli oil than in the control group. Compared with the control group, the two neroli oil groups showed significantly lower diastolic blood pressure and tended to improve pulse rate and serum cortisol and estrogen concentrations. These findings indicate that inhalation of neroli oil helps relieve menopausal symptoms, increase sexual desire, and reduce blood pressure in postmenopausal women. Neroli oil may have potential as an effective intervention to reduce stress and improve the endocrine system.
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Sternfeld B, Guthrie KA, Ensrud KE, LaCroix AZ, Larson JC, Dunn AL, Anderson GL, Seguin RA, Carpenter JS, Newton KM, Reed SD, Freeman EW, Cohen LS, Joffe H, Roberts M, Caan BJ. Efficacy of exercise for menopausal symptoms: a randomized controlled trial. Menopause 2014; 21:330-8. [PMID: 23899828 PMCID: PMC3858421 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0b013e31829e4089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine the efficacy of exercise training for alleviating vasomotor and other menopausal symptoms. METHODS Late perimenopausal and postmenopausal sedentary women with frequent vasomotor symptoms (VMS) participated in a randomized controlled trial conducted in three sites: 106 women randomized to exercise and 142 women randomized to usual activity. The exercise intervention consisted of individual facility-based aerobic exercise training three times per week for 12 weeks. VMS frequency and bother were recorded on daily diaries at baseline and on weeks 6 and 12. Intent-to-treat analyses compared between-group differences in changes in VMS frequency and bother, sleep symptoms (Insomnia Severity Index and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and mood (Patient Health Questionnaire-8 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 questionnaire). RESULTS At the end of week 12, changes in VMS frequency in the exercise group (mean change, -2.4 VMS/d; 95% CI, -3.0 to -1.7) and VMS bother (mean change on a four-point scale, -0.5; 95% CI, -0.6 to -0.4) were not significantly different from those in the control group (-2.6 VMS/d; 95% CI, -3.2 to -2.0; P = 0.43; -0.5 points; 95% CI, -0.6 to -0.4; P = 0.75). The exercise group reported greater improvement in insomnia symptoms (P = 0.03), subjective sleep quality (P = 0.01), and depressive symptoms (P = 0.04), but differences were small and not statistically significant when P values were adjusted for multiple comparisons. Results were similar when considering treatment-adherent women only. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide strong evidence that 12 weeks of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise do not alleviate VMS but may result in small improvements in sleep quality, insomnia, and depression in midlife sedentary women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kristine E. Ensrud
- University of Minnesota and Minneapolis VA Health Care System,
Minneapolis, MN
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ellen W. Freeman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania,
Philadelphia, PA
| | - Lee S. Cohen
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University, Boston,
MA
| | - Hadine Joffe
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University, Boston,
MA
| | | | - Bette J. Caan
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente, Oakland, CA
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Tan MN, Kartal M, Guldal D. The effect of physical activity and body mass index on menopausal symptoms in Turkish women: a cross-sectional study in primary care. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2014; 14:38. [PMID: 24602392 PMCID: PMC3973860 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6874-14-38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Considering the fact that, due to recent evidence, many women no longer prefer hormone replacement therapy, it is especially important to develop intervention options to alleviate menopausal symptoms. Although there is conflicting evidence concerning effectiveness, there is an indication that physical activity and weight control may be useful for alleviating symptoms. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of physical activity and body mass index on menopausal symptoms among menopausal women in Turkey. Methods 305 women between the ages of 45 and 60 who visited the health center for various reasons were recruited into this cross-sectional study. Menopausal women, who visited one of five family physicians working in the same area, were included in the analyses. The Menopause Rating Scale, International Physical Activity Questionnaire and a generic medical and socio-demographic information questionnaire were used. Results Women who were physically active had lower total menopausal (p < 0.001), somato-vegetative (p = 0.004), psychological (p = 0.002), and urogenital (p < 0.001) symptom scores than women who were less active. No differences in vasomotor symptoms were recorded related to physical activity level; significant differences were found for most menopausal symptoms, including sleep (p = 0.009) and sexual (p = 0.043) problems, joint and muscular discomfort (p < 0.001) and vaginal dryness (p = 0.016). BMI was not associated with total menopausal symptoms and with the subscales, excluding depressive mood (p = 0.009). A significant increasing trend in the rate of depressive mood was observed from normal through overweight to obese participants. The mean scores of the total menopausal symptoms were lower among the participants who were well educated, currently working and without chronic diseases. Conclusions Physical activity may play an important role in alleviating menopausal symptoms. As part of preventive medicine, primary care physicians should also stress lifestyle changes, including physical activity, to manage menopausal symptoms.
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Hammar M, Östgren CJ. Healthy aging and age-adjusted nutrition and physical fitness. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2013; 27:741-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2013.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Revised: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Fisher WI, Johnson AK, Elkins GR, Otte JL, Burns DS, Yu M, Carpenter JS. Risk factors, pathophysiology, and treatment of hot flashes in cancer. CA Cancer J Clin 2013; 63:167-92. [PMID: 23355109 PMCID: PMC3640615 DOI: 10.3322/caac.21171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hot flashes are prevalent and severe symptoms that can interfere with mood, sleep, and quality of life for women and men with cancer. The purpose of this article is to review existing literature on the risk factors, pathophysiology, and treatment of hot flashes in individuals with cancer. Electronic searches were conducted to identify relevant English-language literature published through June 15, 2012. Results indicated that risk factors for hot flashes in cancer include patient-related factors (eg, age, race/ethnicity, educational level, smoking history, cardiovascular risk including body mass index, and genetics) and disease-related factors (eg, cancer diagnosis and dose/type of treatment). In addition, although the pathophysiology of hot flashes has remained elusive, these symptoms are likely attributable to disruptions in thermoregulation and neurochemicals. Therapies that have been offered or tested fall into 4 broad categories: pharmacological, nutraceutical, surgical, and complementary/behavioral strategies. The evidence base for this broad range of therapies varies, with some treatments not yet having been fully tested or showing equivocal results. The evidence base surrounding all therapies is evaluated to enhance hot flash treatment decision-making by clinicians and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- William I Fisher
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
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Effects of physical activity on vasomotor symptoms: examination using objective and subjective measures. Menopause 2013; 19:1095-103. [PMID: 22735162 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0b013e31824f8fb8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Physical activity (PA) is essential for successful aging and for the prevention and management of common chronic diseases. The empirical support for the beneficial effects of PA on vasomotor symptoms has, however, been mixed. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of acute aerobic exercise and daily PA on menopausal vasomotor symptoms. METHODS Community-dwelling midlife women (N = 121; age range, 40-60 y) not using hormone therapy were recruited for a 15-day daily diary study. Women completed psychological, cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, and hormonal status screening followed by a 15-day prospective assessment in a "real-life" setting using a personal digital assistant. Participants also completed a 30-minute moderate-intensity aerobic exercise bout on a treadmill between days 5 and 8. Daily PA was assessed objectively through accelerometry, and all symptomatic women (n = 92) completed two 24-hour Biolog sternal skin conductance recordings of hot flashes (HFs)-one at baseline and one immediately after treadmill exercise. RESULTS Both total objective (P = 0.054) and total subjective (P < 0.05) HFs decreased after the acute exercise bout. At the between-person level, daily PA was not associated with self-reported HFs. However, at the within-person level, performing more moderate physical activity than usual was associated with more self-reported HFs in women with lower fitness levels. CONCLUSIONS Moderate aerobic exercise decreases objective and subjective HFs 24 hours after exercise; however, in women with lower fitness levels, more daily moderate PA leads to more self-reported symptoms.
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Abstract
Postmenopausal hormone therapy (PMHT) is used for the relief of menopausal symptoms, but the dosage has varied greatly throughout its existence. By the end of the 1990s, PMHT was mainly used to prevent chronic diseases such as osteoporosis, coronary heart disease and dementia, and large prevention trials were undertaken in this context. Following the initial negative reports of these trials, use of PMHT dramatically decreased. These reports noted surprisingly increased risks, notably of coronary heart disease, stroke and breast cancer, in people who used PMHT. Nowadays, considering the currently available data, it seems that an important distinction should be made between the treatment of climacteric symptoms in young, generally healthy, postmenopausal women and the prevention of chronic diseases in elderly women. PMHT seems to be beneficial and safe for postmenopausal symptomatic women aged <60 years. Treatments with a high safety profile should be the preferred option, including low-dose PMHT, oestrogen-only therapy in women who have had a hysterectomy, and vaginal oestrogen therapy for women with atrophic vaginitis. Nonandrogenic progestin might have a reduced thrombotic and breast cancer risk, and transdermal oestrogen could have a reduced thrombotic risk. Nevertheless, PMHT should not be used for the prevention of chronic diseases in the elderly (>70 years old) owing to the increased risk of stroke and breast cancer in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Rozenberg
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, CHU Saint-Pierre, Université Libre de Buxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
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Effectiveness of yoga for menopausal symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2012; 2012:863905. [PMID: 23304220 PMCID: PMC3524799 DOI: 10.1155/2012/863905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2012] [Accepted: 06/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Objectives. To systematically review and meta-analyze the effectiveness of yoga for menopausal symptoms. Methods. Medline, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO were screened through April 2012. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included if they assessed the effect of yoga on major menopausal symptoms, namely, (1) psychological symptoms, (2) somatic symptoms, (3) vasomotor symptoms, and/or (4) urogenital symptoms. For each outcome, standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Two authors independently assessed risk of bias using the risk of bias tool recommended by the Cochrane Back Review Group.
Results. Five RCTs with 582 participants were included in the qualitative review, and 4 RCTs with 545 participants were included in the meta-analysis. There was moderate evidence for short-term effects on psychological symptoms (SMD = −0.37; 95% CI −0.67 to −0.07; P = 0.02). No evidence was found for total menopausal symptoms, somatic symptoms, vasomotor symptoms, or urogenital symptoms. Yoga was not associated with serious adverse events. Conclusion. This systematic review found moderate evidence for short-term effectiveness of yoga for psychological symptoms in menopausal women. While more rigorous research is needed to underpin these results, yoga can be preliminarily recommended as an additional intervention for women who suffer from psychological complaints associated with menopause.
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Abstract
Overweight and obesity are risk factors for postmenopausal breast cancer, and many women diagnosed with breast cancer, irrespective of menopausal status, gain weight after diagnosis. Weight management plays an important role in rehabilitation and recovery because obesity and/or weight gain may lead to poorer breast cancer prognosis, as well as prevalent comorbid conditions (eg, cardiovascular disease and diabetes), poorer surgical outcomes (eg, increased operating and recovery times, higher infection rates, and poorer healing), lymphedema, fatigue, functional decline, and poorer health and overall quality of life. Health care professionals should encourage weight management at all phases of the cancer care continuum as a means to potentially avoid adverse sequelae and late effects, as well as to improve overall health and possibly survival. Comprehensive approaches that involve dietary and behavior modification, and increased aerobic and strength training exercise have shown promise in either preventing weight gain or promoting weight loss, reducing biomarkers associated with inflammation and comorbidity, and improving lifestyle behaviors, functional status, and quality of life in this high-risk patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Demark-Wahnefried
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, Alabama 35294, USA.
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Daily physical activity and menopausal hot flashes: applying a novel within-person approach to demonstrate individual differences. Maturitas 2012; 71:287-93. [PMID: 22226629 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2011.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2011] [Revised: 11/14/2011] [Accepted: 12/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity (PA) may be a useful tool in the management of menopausal hot flashes (HFs) but findings are generally inconsistent. There are few well-designed and sufficiently powered RCTs. Applying a longitudinal within-person approach offers an alternative way to examine the PA-HFs relationship which enables complete accommodation of inter-individual differences. OBJECTIVES Aprospective daily diary study which applied experience sampling methods and time series modeling techniques investigated, at the within-person level, the relationship between objectively measured daily PA of varying intensities and self-reported menopausal HFs. METHODS Twenty-four symptomatic middle-aged women (M age=50.4; SD=4.9) completed fitness, body composition and hormonal status screening, and reported on daily HFs using an electronic PDA device across one menstrual cycle or for 30 days (if postmenopausal). Daily PA and PA intensity was measured using accelerometry and subjects completed a battery of psychological measures. RESULTS Within person analysis identified significant relations between PA and HFs in 50% of subjects, although the specific PA indicators that predicted HFs varied, both in terms of direction and magnitude. Perceived control over HFs was the variable that most consistently differentiated between women for whom more PA was associated with fewer HFs as compared to those for whom more PA was associated with more HFs, but other individual difference characteristics such as affect, depressive symptoms, and anxiety were identified. CONCLUSIONS There is great individual variation in the way daily PA impacts self-reported HFs. Affective outcomes and perceived control may help potentially explain this variability.
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Abstract
With a significant number of women belonging to the status of menopause and beyond, it is imperative to plan a comprehensive health program for them, including lifestyle modifications. Exercise is an integral part of the strategy. The benefits are many, most important being maintenance of muscle mass and thereby the bone mass and strength. The exercise program for postmenopausal women should include the endurance exercise (aerobic), strength exercise and balance exercise; it should aim for two hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Every woman should be aware of her target heart rate range and should track the intensity of exercise employing the talk test. Other deep breathing, yoga and stretching exercises can help to manage the stress of life and menopause-related symptoms. Exercises for women with osteoporosis should not include high impact aerobics or activities in which a fall is likely. The women and the treating medical practitioner should also be aware of the warning symptoms and contraindications regarding exercise prescription in women beyond menopause. The role of exercise in hot flashes, however, remains inconclusive. Overall, exercising beyond menopause is the only noncontroversial and beneficial aspect of lifestyle modification and must be opted by all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nalini Mishra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pt. J N M Medical College and BRAM Hospital, Raipur (C.G.), India
| | - V. N. Mishra
- Department of Medicine, Pt. J N M Medical College and BRAM Hospital, Raipur (C.G.), India
| | - Devanshi
- Intern, Pt. J N M Medical College and BRAM Hospital Raipur (C.G.), India
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